Lists some of the major typographic variables involved in structured abstracts (containing sub-headings). Illustrates how typography can affect clarity by presenting seven examples that illustrate the effects of these typographic variables in practice. Concludes with a final example of an effective approach. (SR)

Describes efforts to convert technical writing paper course material to an online advisory system, "Ganesh Helper." Assesses aspects of use of the new media, logging students' actions and observations while writing a report. Finds that a majority of students surveyed felt the helpviewer easy to use and useful, but most still preferred the textbook…

Proposes a system for document organization based on cueing and page formatting techniques, in which the logical and systematic use of cueing and formatting creates a visual hierarchy organizing and signalling information for the reader. Maintains that proper application produces increased reading speeds, ease of access, and comprehension. (SR)

Proposes that an examination and analysis of a company's overall communication network may provide significant guidelines for increasing the organization's communication effectiveness. Explains network roles and considers their contributions to the communication climate. (SR)

Describes three principles of direct mail sales letters intended to entice readers to read them: the personalized look; an indirect arrangement of support; and readability ease. (SR)

Describes a format for writing clinical investigator's brochures for the Food and Drug Administration summarizing information about a drug that is about to enter clinical trials. (SR)

Introduces a special issue on technical communication in Canada. Describes aspects of employment, academia, organizations, conferences, and journals in the field of technical communication in Canada. (SR)

Introduces (in the French language) a special issue on technical communication in Canada. Describes aspects of employment, academia, organizations, conferences, and journals in the field of technical communication in Canada. (SR)

Addresses the need of technical communicators to become critical readers of empirical research. Presents simple definitions of selected research designs and statistical concepts. Accompanies these definitions with concrete examples related to the field of technical communication research. (SR)

States that litigation over the interpretation and sufficiency of technical documentation is increasingly common as a number of suits have been filed in state and federal courts. Describes the case of "Martin versus Hacker," a recent case in which New York's highest court analyzed a technical writer's prose in the context of a lawsuit over a…